When Joe and Gill Branchflower decided to leave the house they had lived in for nearly 40 years, it was a big emotional step. Now, just over two years after moving into their two-bedroom apartment at Charrington Lodge in Oxted, they say it feels like the perfect new chapter in their lives. Gill said: “We had lots of happy memories in our old home, but we’re very glad to have made the move.”
The couple remember how supported they felt from the very beginning. Their Sales Executive, Karen Hills and downsizing advisor Liesl, helped them navigate both the practical side of the move and the emotions that come with leaving a long-term family home.
Gill continues: “Liesl was so reassuring. She helped us with everything. On moving day, the Churchill team even arranged a lunch for us, which was such a lovely touch because we hadn’t even thought about eating that day.”
Since settling in, life at the Lodge has exceeded their expectations. They love spending time in the cosy Owners’ Lounge and the Guest Suite means their son can stay over comfortably when visiting from Lancashire. They enjoy the peace and quiet despite being close to the centre of Oxted and they’ve found that everything they need is within easy reach.
“Another good thing about being so close to town is that we don’t need to rely on the car as much,” Gill adds.
What really stands out is just how content they feel. Joe comments: “Every morning when I wake up, it feels like I’m on holiday”.
Their daughter-in-law, Kerry, recently visited with her three sons Sonny, Barnaby and Bobby. Gill says: “They were all so impressed, it meant a lot to them to see how happy and settled we are here.”
Joe has also become a well-known friendly figure locally thanks to the time he volunteers helping people with IT. He works at the library in Oxted offering support to anyone who needs help with their phones or computers and he also gives one-to-one assistance to fellow Owners at the Lodge. “It’s very important that everyone has a bit of knowledge about technology,” he says, “I’m happy to pass on what I’ve learned to others.” One of the Owners he regularly helps, Bunty Walker, says, “It’s very reassuring knowing there is someone close by who can answer IT questions.”
After more than two years at Charrington Lodge, Joe and Gill say they feel completely settled, surrounded by supportive neighbours and enjoying a lifestyle that suits them perfectly. “We’re very content here,” says Gill, “It really does feel like home.”
For anyone wondering whether they should make a similar move, they have simple advice: “Take the plunge,” Joe says, “it’s the best thing we did.”